42 pages • 1 hour read
The Left Hand of Darkness
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Book Brief
304
Novel • Fiction
Gethen • Far Future
1969
Adult
15+ years
970L
Super Short Summary
In The Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula K. Le Guin, Genly Ai, an ambassador from the Ekumen, arrives on the planet Gethen to convince its inhabitants to join the confederacy. Genly struggles to understand the genderless Gethenians and faces political intrigue and extreme climate conditions. Estraven, a Gethenian, becomes his ally, and together they embark on a perilous journey, forming a deep bond. The novel explores themes of gender, communication, and cultural differences. The book includes instances of death by suicide and discussions of sexual violence.
Mysterious
Contemplative
Fantastical
Melancholic
Challenging
Reviews & Readership
204,966 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula K. Le Guin is often praised for its rich world-building and exploration of complex themes such as gender and politics. Readers appreciate its innovative narrative and poetic prose. However, some criticize its dense exposition and slow pacing. The novel remains a thought-provoking, genre-defining work in science fiction.
Who Should Read The Left Hand of Darkness?
A reader who enjoys digging deep into gender roles, political intrigue, and rich world-building will find The Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula K. Le Guin compelling. Fans of Dune by Frank Herbert and The Dispossessed by Le Guin herself will appreciate the complex characters and thought-provoking themes.
204,966 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Therem Harth rem ir Estraven
Therem Harth rem ir Estraven
Once the prime minister of Karhide, Estraven is a Gethenian who becomes closely involved in Genly’s mission and provides insight into Gethenian culture and politics.
King Argaven Harge XV
King Argaven Harge XV
The king of Karhide, who is portrayed as indifferent and resistant to the new ideas brought by Genly’s mission, contributing to the political backdrop of the story.
Obsle, Shusgis, and Gaum
Obsle, Shusgis, and Gaum
Members of the Orgoreyn Council of 33, with Obsle and Shusgis appearing friendly while secretly controlling information about Genly’s mission, and Gaum opposing Genly as part of the secret police.
Faxe the Weaver
Faxe the Weaver
A Gethen Foreteller valued by Genly for their openness and insight, belonging to a group that practices reading the future and providing key philosophical perspectives.
304
Novel • Fiction
Gethen • Far Future
1969
Adult
15+ years
970L
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